Vancouver's architecture is predominantly modern, shaped by its relatively recent large-scale development, its spectacular natural setting, and a progressive approach to urban living. The cityscape is characterized by a high density of residential towers, often utilizing glass to maximize views of the surrounding mountains and water.
Key Architectural Influences and Styles
- West Coast Modernism: This influential mid-20th-century style emphasizes a harmonious relationship between buildings and the natural landscape. Key features include the extensive use of wood and local stone, post-and-beam construction, large windows, and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Architects like Arthur Erickson championed this approach.
- Vancouverism: An urban planning and architectural phenomenon, Vancouverism typically involves slender, mixed-use residential towers set on podiums that incorporate public amenities, retail, and townhouses. This model prioritizes density, public spaces, view corridors, and access to natural light, aiming for livable high-density urban environments.
- Contemporary Glass Towers: Much of Vancouver's skyline, particularly in areas like Downtown and Coal Harbour, is defined by sleek, contemporary high-rise condominiums constructed with steel, concrete, and extensive glass curtain walls. This reflects a continued focus on views and modern aesthetics.
- Sustainable Design: There is a growing emphasis on green building practices, with many new developments incorporating sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs, and aiming for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.
Urban Form and Materials
The prevalent use of glass is a defining feature of Vancouver's contemporary architecture, earning it the nickname "City of Glass." This choice is functional, maximizing light and vistas, and aesthetic, contributing to a luminous skyline. Urban planning policies have significantly shaped the city’s built form, encouraging density in the urban core and along transit corridors while seeking to protect public views and access to green space.
Historical Architecture
While a largely modern city, Vancouver retains some significant historical architecture. Gastown, the city's original core, features Victorian-era commercial buildings. Other older neighbourhoods showcase Edwardian homes and early 20th-century styles. However, the period following Expo '86 marked a major development boom that defined much of the current architectural landscape.
